2/23/19 Introduction to Local Natural Dyes

2/23/19 Introduction to Local Natural Dyes

[ BONUS- each student will receive a sample package of Osage Orange Natural Dye Supply to take home for further study]

A sampling of snack from local shops / bakeries + refreshments will be available throughout the workshop, also please feel free to bring your own favorites to enjoy.

Join us for an opportunity to learn how to add color to cloth + yarn using locally foraged natural dyes.

In this workshop you will learn the basics of harvesting a variety of local plants [Staghorn Sumac, Black Walnut, Osage Orange, + Pokeberry] and how to process them into usable dye.

We will begin by learning how to prep the fabric using various mordants and scouring methods. I will have raw dye materials on hand as well as pre-prepared vats for a comparison on how time plays a large factor in this ancient artform. Once the dyes are prepped, we will use a variety of sample swatches [wool, alpaca, cotton, linen, silk, hemp] to see how the dye reacts differently on protein vs. cellulose fiber.

Participants will have the opportunity to experiment with different color combinations and will take home personal fabric + fiber samples and a package of Osage Orange sawdust for further study.

I will also share tips on fabric and fiber sourcing, how to stretch your dye vats, and the best times of the year to be on the lookout for local dye materials. We will also explore the vast color range of these natural resources by experimenting with their various reactions on protein (wool, silk, alpaca) vs. cellulose (cotton, linen, hemp) fibers.

If you have a small skein of yarn / swatch of fabric that you think is a good candidate for the dye vat, please feel free to bring it along to use as an example in our discussion.

The second half of the class is set aside for block printing with natural inks and experimentation with the dye vats. Various samples of textile art + applique will be on display for inspiration, although creative exploration is always encouraged.

The location for this winter workshop will be inside the front room of the farm house, originally built in the late 1860s. Please join us as we continue to add to the rich history of this gathering space while enjoying the company of like minds, fresh ideas, and the warmth of the fireplace.

*All are welcome, no previous experience is necessary

(Space is limited to 8 participants)

*Due to the time intensive preparation that is required, all workshop sales are final. Tickets may be transferred to another attendee in case of any last minute changes in plans.